Legal Definitions - delay

Delay is the act of postponing or slowing something down. It can also refer to the period during which something is postponed or slowed.

• The continuance was sought for no purpose other than delay.
• The delay in starting the trial made it difficult for all the witnesses to attend.
• During the delay, the case settled.
• The delay for responding to written interrogatories is 15 days after the date they are served on the responding party.

The first example shows that someone intentionally delayed something without any valid reason. The second example illustrates how a delay in starting a trial can cause problems for everyone involved. The third example shows that something was resolved during the period of delay. The fourth example is a legal term that refers to the period within which a party to a suit must take some action.